Italy's support for Albania

April 23, 1992

The Opinion page article "A Pivotal Time in Albania," April 15, gives a general overview of the difficult economic conditions prevailing in that country and underlines that the international community, and the West in particular, should undertake a major effort to help Albania. We could not agree more. A major effort has already been made by Italy - the leading contributor to Albania.

Since March 1991, Italy has appropriated a total of $320 million in aid most of which has already been disbursed and which includes emergency foodstuff and medical supplies as well as financial aid and support for the operative resumption of the country's crucial economic sectors. Italy has also sent a military contingent of approximately 900 men to distribute the aid provided.

We agree that international commitment toward Albania should be larger, but Italy's contribution is significant and deserving of mention. Carlo Trezza, Washington, Press Counselor, Embassy of Italy

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